Donald R. Grohs
1930 - 2021
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Celeste Henebry Proulx lit a candle
Thursday, February 18, 2021
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Prayers for the family as we honor Mr. Grohs who was a good friend and fellow teacher to my father (Mr. Henebry.). They enjoyed driving to Storrs to watch the Huskies men’s basketball games, sharing family travel experiences, and other stories!
Celeste Henebry Proulx. VRHS 1975
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Trudy sokolowski Holliday posted a condolence
Monday, February 15, 2021
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of my favorite teacher ever, he was invited to my wedding in 1978 and we were dancing and he stepped on the train. that's the memory I'm going to keep it was a good one plus he was great school teacher my condolences and sympathy to the family.
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Carol Sopkiw Hert lit a candle
Sunday, February 14, 2021
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Mr. Grohs was my teacher back in the early 60's, as well as our class advisor. He was an excellent teacher as well as a kind, soft spoken man with an enduring grin. It was fun reconnecting with him at our class reunions. Four siblings followed me over 17 years and we all had him as a teacher. The memorial service was lovely and the family tributes beautiful. I must admit, I was a bit taken aback when Daniel spoke. It was like Mr GROHS reincarnate. Please accept my condolences and prayers for peace and comfort.
Carol Sopkiw Hert ( VRHS Class of 1966)
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Charles Sannard posted a condolence
Sunday, February 14, 2021
Don was a great teacher and a good friend. As a senior at VRHS, I enjoyed sparring with him in CI class (1972-73- Nixon vs George McGovern) .He also taught me how to drive. As a reporter I would see him at Deep River Zoning Board of Appeals meetings.I might never have become a reporter if not for the education .Don helped give me./ Charles Stannard
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Bruce and Marie-Jo Andrews lit a candle
Sunday, February 14, 2021
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Dear Evelyn,
Our deepest condolences for the loss of Don. Don and I were on the Deep River ZBA together and of course you and Don regular parishioners with us at the Deep River Congregational Church until our move from Connecticut. Don's wry sense of humor and professionalism in all aspects of his life were wonderful and to be admired by all. He will be missed.
Much love, Bruce and Marie-Jo andrews
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Amy posted a condolence
Sunday, February 14, 2021
Dear Evie, Keryn, Nancy and Dan,
Our community has suffered a great loss. Don's mark has been left throughout our church and our town and we will always remember what a great man he was. We are so very sorry for your loss but please find some comfort in the fact that his memory will live on in the lives of the many he touched. May your loving memories of him keep his spirit alive in your hearts forever.
Amy and Dale Winchell
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A tree was planted in memory of Donald Grohs
Sunday, February 14, 2021
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Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Elena Baroni-Rabel and the Baroni Family
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Elena Baroni-Rabel posted a condolence
Sunday, February 14, 2021
Dear Family of Donald Grohs,
My cousin sent Mr. Grohs' obituary (I still would have to call him that from knowing him as a child and having him as a teacher at Valley Regional Junior/High School a long time ago). He was a good friend of my family and I remember his helping out at my parents' flower shop (George and Lena Baroni). They have passed on quite a few years ago after moving to Albuquerque where I continue to live. I have only the best memories of your husband, father and grandfather. He was such a support in junior high when my family was struggling with a serious injury to one of my twin sisters. I will always remember him with love, gratitude and the fondest memories. Elena Baroni-Rabel
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eddie turner posted a condolence
Sunday, February 14, 2021
Dear Mrs Grohs ,Danny, Nancy and Keryn, I am at a lost for words, saying sorry for your loss does not seem adequate .I don't think there are any words that will take the hurt or fill that void in our hearts that we are all feeling now. I for one will miss him coming up to the high school for various events and we will surely miss him at the horseshoe pits on Thursdays, always sought him out and asked how everyone was doing ,and I always got a full intel report, I would like you all to know that my wife Joann and I are thinking of your family during this difficult time. our sincere condolences, Eddie and Joann Turner
George Baroni posted a condolence
Sunday, February 14, 2021
Mr Grohs was a very good friend of my family, George & Lena Baroni of Essex & Old Saybrook, CT. He would work all of the major holidays, helping deliver flowers for our family business, Riverview Gardens. I was often paired up with Mr Grohs as the runner, while he was the driver. I have very fond memories of driving and delivering flowers with Mr Grohs. He made work a lot of fun. I also remember many trips up to Storrs, CT to watch a UCONN basketball game with my parents and Mr Grohs. Additionally we took trips to NYC to watch college basketball games at The Garden as well as a few games at Yankee Stadium.
Mr Grohs was an avid sports fan, which is why he got along so well with my parents. I spent one year at Valley Regional where he was an excellent teacher. He also taught drivers education to my Mom when she finally broke down and got a drivers license.
Mr Grohs was a wonderful man and I have so much admiration and fondness for him. My sincere condolences for your loss.
George E Baroni
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Brian Howell posted a condolence
Sunday, February 14, 2021
Don was a great teacher and mentor! Later in life I was proud to call him my friend! (He never mentioned to me what a wise ass I was at high School haha!)
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John H. Proctor posted a condolence
Saturday, February 13, 2021
I first met Don when he was teaching social studies and I was the Superintendent. He also taught Driver's Education. When the program was discontinued, he asked me if he could conduct it after school. He secured the car and insurance and we met and established his payment for running the program. Even when he retired, he continued to run the program. I was so impressed with his dedication. So many students benefited form his instruction. He was very active in the community and demonstrated his objective of teaching students to become involved as active citizens.
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Dan Murphy posted a condolence
Saturday, February 13, 2021
Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there....I do not sleep
I am the thousand winds that blow
I am the diamond glints on the snow
I am the sunlight on the ripened grain
I am the gentle Autumn rain
When you waken in the morning hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of gentle birds in circling flight
I am the soft star that shines at night
Do not stand by my grave and cry
I am not there-I did not die
A soldier's poem....nothing I could say could capture Mr.Grohs better....in my opinion of course.
RIP Mr.Grohs........and thank you.
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Linda Morrison posted a condolence
Friday, February 12, 2021
I absolutely loved Mr. Grohs and his Comparative Governments class. He had a wonderfully dry sense of humor and I learned a great deal from him. He was one of the best Valley Regional had to offer. And after reading his obituary and learning a bit more about his private life, I'd have to say he was a great human being as well as an exemplary teacher. A bright light has turned off in the world with his passing. Rest in Peace, Mr. Grohs--you are missed.
--Linda Morrison--Class of 1972--VRHS
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Phoebe lit a candle
Friday, February 12, 2021
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May Mr. Grohs rest in peace and may his memory be a blessing to everyone who knew and loves him. I participated in the American Legion Oratory competitions throughout my time as a student at Valley Regional High School. I remember Mr. Grohs' careful attention, steady eye contact, and firm, warm handshake at every competition. I used to scan the crowd for his gaze when I grew nervous because he was such a reassuring presence. Thank you, Mr. Grohs, for your service throughout your life.
Sincerely,
Phoebe Petrovic - VRHS '14
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Jeffrey Turner lit a candle
Friday, February 12, 2021
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My sincerest condolences to the Grohs, Evie, Dan, Nancy, Keryn and families. Mr Grohs was one of my favorite teachers, interesting, great sense of humor, and always wearing that amused smile. I lost my oldest son Ryan in Sept 2001 and Don was one of the first people at his wake and funeral. I hadn't lived in Deep River for over 25 years and he had never met my son, but was there to support me and my family. That meant more to me than he will ever know. But that is just the type of man he was and I am grateful to have known him. RIP Mr. Grohs.
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Michael and Claire Ryan planted a tree in memory of Donald Grohs
Friday, February 12, 2021
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With deepest sympathy. Sending you all prayers.
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Eileen Richard lit a candle
Thursday, February 11, 2021
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Members at AMERICAN LEGION Post 61 Ibell-Jacobson-Smith were saddened to hear about our dear comrade Don's passing. Don Grohs served as our Jr. Vice Commander for many years. He did not just attend meetings. He volunteered to continue to serve our community, state, and nation. Without Don Grohs, who would have stepped forward to place the American Flags along Main Street in Deep River? He was very careful to see that all the flags were placed correctly. This was a twice a year project. Even at age 89 he stayed committed. He continued to serve as an educator even after he was long retired. He was the major coordinator for the American Legion Oratorical Contest which required many details to be exact. Many Valley Regional students were able to "shine" as accomplished orators because Don Grohs kept this activity successful. He set a high standard for the students, other teachers, the public, and other Post 61 members to follow. Post 61 is looked upon as a strong contributor to this contest because Don could coordinate with the principals, teachers, coaches and judges so effectively. He did acquire deserved recognition and was proud of his awards. Don was just one individual person who made a difference because he said "yes" as a volunteer. Deep River as well as our nation appreciate his service as a veteran, and courage as a former U.S. Army member during the Korean War. Post 61 members wish to express their condolences to Evelyn, and the Grohs Family. He will be missed.
Sincerely,
Eileen B. Richard, Commander for Post 61
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Nancy Crowl Swanson posted a condolence
Thursday, February 11, 2021
Dear Grohs Family,
I was so sorry to learn of Mr.Grohs passing. I have such fond memories of him from our neighborhood and Valley. He will be missed by many. I wish you all peace at this difficult time. May all your memories provide comfort.
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Brian May posted a condolence
Thursday, February 11, 2021
My sincere condolences to the Grohs family. Don was certainly loved and respected by his DRCC family and faithfully served his country and community with pride and dignity. God bless Don and his family.
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Colleen Hartigan-Piatak posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 10, 2021
Mr. Grohs may you Rest In Peace. Thank you for being a great teacher. To the Grohs’ family I am so sorry for your loss my prayers are with you during this difficult time. Godspeed, Colleen Hartigan-Piatak
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Kyle Fitch posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 10, 2021
Don was a wonderful person. I had the privilege to know him the past three years through his work with the American Legion. He had such a dedication and love for history and our country. I will truly miss him.
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Flo Zaremba lit a candle
Wednesday, February 10, 2021
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I send my heartfelt sympathy to Evie, Dan, Nancy, Keryn and their families.
I had Mr. GROHS for a teacher in high school. Don and Evie have been my neighbors and friends since 1977. They have watched my children grow up with a lot of patience! Don taught both of my kids drivers ed! Don would walk over to play many games of horse shoes with Derek and his friends. They always loved to see him come. I always admired all of the road trips along with all of the European travel they took. I remember a few years ago when Don told me that he and Evie were driving cross country to California to see their grandson! I was beyond surprised and said Wow you are amazing Don! He laughed and said why not! We will take our time and will be gone about 3 to 4 weeks. He and Evie set out for yet another adventure! I would always see them together. It was nice to see they truly enjoyed each other. It was sweet and rare! Don was a good teacher, a good man and shared his knowledge of many things. He was a good neighbor and friend. Don you will be missed. When I think of him, I will smile. RIP my dear friend.
With Love,
Flo Zaremba and family
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Bobbi Nidz posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 10, 2021
Don ran the American Legion Oratory each year at Valley Regional High School. He always attended the local and state competitions after our school contest, too. Don loved listening to the students speak about our Constitution and his support was wonderful! Don will be greatly missed! A true friend to education!
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Peter J Talbot posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 10, 2021
I’m so very sorry to hear of Mr Grohs passing. He was a truly wonderful, engaging teacher, and I truly enjoyed my social studies / current events classes with him. He was a great and true American, and I know he will be greatly missed by many. My deepest sympathy to his family in this difficult time. VRHS ‘79
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Olivia Tower Dancosse posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 10, 2021
Sorry for your loss.. prayers to the family and hug too. Had him for Ci.. great teacher.
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Brenda Jones posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 10, 2021
Loved his slide shows of his world travels. He made them so interesting.
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Monique Heller posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 10, 2021
To the family of Mr. Grohs, I was so saddened to hear the news. I had the pleasure of taking Western Civilization and Driver’s Education with him. He couldn’t believe I was given my license after my road test! Blessings to you all. With deepest sympathy and condolences, Monique Heller ❤️
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Patrick Bowers posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 10, 2021
Truly one of the best teachers at Valley! Not to mention one of the bravest, to have sat in the passenger seat alongside so many teenaged drivers in training. The influence you had over so many young people, your family life, travels, service to this country, what an amazing life you lived. Rest well Mr Grohs. My sincerest condolences to the entire Grohs Family and all who loved Mr Grohs.
Patrick Bowers
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Bob Waz posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 10, 2021
My condolences to Mr. Grohs' family. Everybody had that one favorite and most memorable teacher. Mr. Grohs was mine. I remember those VRHS Jr. High recess or lunchtime or study-hall? touch football games where we gave him the nickname "Show no Mercy Grohs", which he jokingly also referred to himself as. He was the Dean of the Jr. High wing. Mr. Grohs was an extremely knowledgeable teacher, role model and friend . He taught us not just about history and civics, but about life and how to be a good citizen and person. They were the only classes I remember that I looked forward to every day,
Bob Waz
VRHS Class of 66
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Frank Jacaruso posted a condolence
Tuesday, February 9, 2021
So sorry to hear about Don’s passing. Will fondly remember the days that we taught together at VRHS
Frank Jacaruso
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Camille and Steve Pitts planted a tree in memory of Donald Grohs
Tuesday, February 9, 2021
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In honor of a life fully-lived and one that leaves a legacy of love.
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A tree was planted in memory of Donald Grohs
Tuesday, February 9, 2021
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Gary J. Senn posted a condolence
Tuesday, February 9, 2021
He will always be Mr. Grohs to me. He taught me how to drive and later, I learned about Western Civilizations in his class. I even earned UConn credit for the course, which I transferred and used as part of my undergraduate credit.
One memory was the very first time I was behind the wheel of the student driver car. I had signaled to turn onto Warsaw Street. After turning onto the street, the signal light was still on. Rather than use my hand to turn off the signal, I turned the entire steering wheel knowing that doing so should make the signal click off. I almost drove us off the road and he almost took me back home.
Another memory was when I was on a bicycle ride with Keryn. Our wheels collided and my bike was not in good shape. Mr. Grohs came out and fixed if for me so that I could ride back home.
Thank you for the memories, Mr. Grohs. You will be missed.
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